פָּשַׁט

פָּשַׁט

to spread out (i.e. deploy in hostile array); by analogy, to strip (i.e. unclothe, plunder, flay, etc.)

Definition

The verb פָּשַׁט (pâshaṭ) carries two primary senses in the Hebrew Bible. Its core meaning is 'to spread out,' often describing the deployment of troops in a hostile array or attack, as seen when Abimelech's forces 'spread out' against Shechem (Judges 9:33, 9:44). By extension, it frequently means 'to strip off,' referring to the removal of clothing (Genesis 37:23), priestly garments (Leviticus 16:23), or skin from a sacrifice (Leviticus 1:6). This stripping sense expands metaphorically to denote plundering or spoiling in a military context.

Biblical Usage

פָּשַׁט is used 42 times across narrative, legal, and poetic books. In military contexts, it describes launching invasions or spreading out for attack (Judges 9:33, 9:44; 1 Samuel 23:27). In ritual contexts, it specifies the stripping of priestly vestments (Leviticus 16:23; Numbers 20:26, 20:28) or preparing sacrificial animals (Leviticus 1:6; 6:11). The sense of violent stripping or plundering appears in stories like Joseph's brothers stripping his robe (Genesis 37:23) and in prophetic oracles against nations (Ezekiel 26:16).

Etymology

As a primitive root, פָּשַׁט is not derived from another Hebrew word. Cognates exist in other Semitic languages, like Akkadian 'pašāṭu' (to spread out) and Arabic 'fasaṭa' (to expand), supporting the core idea of extension or spreading. The semantic development from 'spreading out' (troops) to 'stripping off' (clothing, skin) is a natural metaphorical link, as both actions involve a removal or an unfolding.

Semantic Range

פָּשַׁט holds theological significance in its ritual use, marking transitions between sacred and ordinary states. The commanded stripping of the high priest's garments on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:23) symbolizes the temporary laying aside of his mediatorial role and glory. In narratives, its use in Joseph's betrayal (Genesis 37:23) foreshadows humiliation and suffering, themes later connected to the suffering servant. Understanding this word enriches readings of divine judgment (as stripping away security) and priestly mediation. In its military sense, 'spreading out' troops reflected ancient Near Eastern tactical maneuvers to surround a city or engage an enemy force. The stripping of garments was a profound cultural act of humiliation, reduction in status, or preparation for a new role, making its ritual application deeply symbolic. The flaying of sacrificial animals (Leviticus 1:6) was a standard part of Israelite cultic practice, distinguishing it from the skinning of game. פָּשַׁט (pâshaṭ, H6584) — often implies a forceful or spreading action in stripping or deploying. עָרָה (ʿârâh, H6168) — to lay bare or uncover, often used for stripping in a more general sense. שָׁלַל (shâlal, H7997) — to plunder or spoil, focusing on the act of taking booty rather than the initial act of stripping.

Word Details